13-Day Ultimate Auckland Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Glass Goose Bar & Eatery

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients and stunning views.
Located in Federal Street, just a short walk from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Sky Tower

Experience breathtaking views of Auckland's skyline from the observation deck.
A quick 10-minute walk from The Glass Goose.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Auckland Art Gallery

Admire an impressive collection of New Zealand and international art within a stunning architectural space.
Just a 15-minute walk from the Sky Tower.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Depot Eatery

Savor a casual lunch with a New Zealand twist, including their famous fresh oysters.
A 10-minute stroll from the art gallery.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Albert Park

Enjoy a relaxing walk amidst beautiful landscapes and sculptures.
Just a 5-minute walk from Depot.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum

Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s cultural and natural heritage with exhibitions and WWII memorial galleries.
Take a 20-minute bus ride from Albert Park.
NZD25, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Orbit 360° Dining

End your day with a unique revolving dining experience while enjoying views of the city.
Located atop the Sky Tower; a 5-minute walk from the museum.
NZD90, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Culture

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aotea Square Café

Enjoy a vibrant café atmosphere with great coffee and fresh pastries.
Located centrally within Aotea Square, easily accessible.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Auckland Domain and Parnell Rose Gardens

Stroll amidst lush greenery and stunning rose collections in one of Auckland's oldest parks.
Take bus number 755 from Aotea Square; about a 15-minute ride.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Uncover the Auckland Zoo

Explore the vast range of wildlife and focus on conservation at this award-winning zoo.
A short 10-minute bus ride from the Domain.
NZD28, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at La Zeppa

Indulge in delicious tapas-style dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Take a bus back to the city center, a 20-minute ride.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Cable Car and Explore One Tree Hill

Travel on the iconic cable car for splendid views before hiking to One Tree Hill.
Catch a bus to the Glen Innes Station, then a cable car ride.
NZD12, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pocket Bar & Kitchen

Experience contemporary Kiwi cuisine in a welcoming venue just off the main streets.
A short bus ride down to the Grey Lynn suburb.
NZD45, 2 hours
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Day 3: Island Retreat

Waiheke Island, New Zealand

7:30AM

Take the Ferry to Waiheke Island

Enjoy a scenic ride across the Hauraki Gulf to the stunning Waiheke Island.
Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland; arrive 40 minutes later.
NZD42, 1 hour

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Oyster Inn

Savor fresh seafood breakfast with a stunning sea view.
A 5-minute taxi ride from the ferry terminal on Waiheke.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Vineyards - Te Motu Vineyard

Take a wine tasting tour at one of Waiheke's premier vineyards.
A short shuttle ride from the restaurant.
NZD25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Te Whau Vineyard

Enjoy lunch overlooking the beautiful vineyards and Hauraki Gulf.
A short cab ride from Te Motu.
NZD50, 2 hours

3:00PM

Beach Time at Onetangi Beach

Relax or swim at one of the island's most beautiful beaches.
A local bus will take you to the beach for a scenic trip.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Batch Winery

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner alongside great wines.
A short bus ride back toward the ferry terminal.
NZD70, 2 hours

8:30PM

Ferry Back to Auckland

Head back to Auckland after a relaxing day on the island.
Catch the ferry from Waiheke back to Auckland.
NZD42, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè L'affare

Start your day with Auckland’s renowned coffee and fresh pastries.
Located centrally, not far from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Waitakere Ranges

Discover the breathtaking nature walks and waterfalls in this regional park.
Take a bus to Titirangi, then a short taxi ride to the park.
NZD15, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Rosa

Enjoy vibrant Mexican cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Taxi back to the city, a short ride.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tour Auckland’s Chinatown

Explore the rich Asian culture with shops and small eateries in the lively district.
A 15-minute walk from La Rosa.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Māori Cultural Experience

Engage in traditional Māori dance and storytelling.
A short taxi ride back toward the waterfront.
NZD65, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the Auckland Fish Market

Home to fantastic seafood restaurants; try fish and chips at one of the stalls.
Five minutes from the cultural center by taxi.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Adventure Awaits

Rotorua, New Zealand

7:00AM

Travel to Rotorua

Catch an early coach to Rotorua, famous for geothermal activity and Māori culture.
Board the bus from Auckland Central Bus Station.
NZD40, 3 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at Fat Dog Café & Bar

Delight in a big breakfast and famous blueberry pancakes.
Located close to the bus station in Rotorua.
NZD25, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit the Geothermal Park - Te Puia

Watch bubbling mud pools and geysers in a stunning natural setting.
Located just a short drive or walk from the café.
NZD50, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Eat Streat

Enjoy a variety of food stalls and eateries offering local delicacies.
A short walk from Te Puia.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at the Polynesian Spa

Unwind in natural hot mineral baths with a view over Lake Rotorua.
A quick taxi ride from Eat Streat.
NZD85, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Atticus Finch

Savor a locally inspired menu in a chic setting.
Located near the spa; just a short walk.
NZD55, 2 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Insights

Rotorua, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Daily Café

Start with a wholesome breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Just down the street from where you’re staying.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Experience the Tamaki Māori Village

Engage in a Māori cultural experience with a traditional hangi feast.
A short bus ride to the village on the outskirts.
NZD110, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant

Enjoy lunch while taking in stunning views of the city at the top of the Skyline Rotorua.
A 15-minute walk from the Māori village.
NZD50, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Rotorua Museum

Learn about the history, art, and culture of Rotorua.
A short cab ride from the restaurant.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Take a stroll in Kuirau Park

Explore geothermal features and beautiful gardens.
A short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Australian

Experience classic pub food and local beers.
A 10-minute walk from Kuirau Park.
NZD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Caving Adventure

Waitomo, New Zealand

7:30AM

Travel to Waitomo

Depart Rotorua early to explore the famous glowworm caves.
Catch the early bus from Rotorua Central.
NZD35, 2 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Waitomo Homestead

Feast on a hearty breakfast before beginning your cave adventure.
A short walk from the bus drop-off point.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Glowworm Cave Tour

Take a guided tour through the enchanting glowworm caves.
Booked in advance through the homestead.
NZD75, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Huhu Café

Enjoy delicious dishes made with local ingredients.
Located near the caves, a short drive away.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Ruakuri Cave

Continue your caving experience by exploring another spectacular cave.
A short drive from Huhu Café.
NZD75, 2 hours

5:00PM

Travel Back to Rotorua

Return to Rotorua after an adventurous day.
Catch the bus back to Rotorua.
NZD35, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Pig & Whistle

Enjoy classic Kiwi dishes in a lively pub atmosphere.
Located centrally in Rotorua.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Travel back to Auckland

Enjoy a relaxing bus journey back to Auckland.
Take the bus from Rotorua Central.
NZD40, 3 hours

11:00AM

Brunch at The Federal Delicatessen

Indulge in a classic Kiwi brunch with bagels and coffee.
A short walk from the bus station.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Shopping at Queen Street

Explore Auckland’s vibrant shopping street filled with shops and boutiques.
Just a 10-minute walk from The Federal.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Auckland Maritime Museum

Learn about New Zealand’s rich maritime history and heritage.
Only a 15-minute walk from Queen Street.
NZD25, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Devonport

Take a ferry to Devonport for stunning views of Auckland's skyline.
Catch the ferry from downtown Auckland.
NZD17, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Navy Café

Enjoy a delectable meal by the waterfront in Devonport.
A short walk from the ferry terminal.
NZD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Bays and Beaches

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

7:00AM

Travel to Bay of Islands

Catch a coach to the stunning Bay of Islands, known for its natural beauty.
Depart from Auckland Central Bus Station.
NZD40, 3 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Rocks Café

Relish a full breakfast with views of the bay.
Located at Waitangi, near the coast.
NZD25, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Discover New Zealand’s founding document and historical significance.
A short walk from the café.
NZD35, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Duke of Marlborough

Enjoy a hearty meal with ocean views in Russell.
Take a ferry from Paihia to Russell.
NZD40, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Otehei Bay

Relax and swim at one of the nearby breathtaking beaches.
Catch a ferry back to Paihia, then a bus ride.
Free, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Waterfront Restaurant

Dine on stylish seafood dishes while watching the sunset over the bay.
Return to Paihia for dinner before returning to your accommodation.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day 10: Island Adventure

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Greenhouse

Enjoy fresh, healthy breakfast options at this local favorite.
Located centrally in Paihia.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take a Dolphin Cruise

Experience the beauty of the Bay of Islands while spotting dolphins in the wild.
Book your cruise in advance; departures from Paihia.
NZD85, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Charcoal Grill

Savor delicious grilled dishes in a relaxed setting.
After the cruise, just a short walk from the harbor.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Russell Island

Explore this charming historic town with beautiful beaches and galleries.
Take a ferry from Paihia to Russell.
NZD17, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Gables

Enjoy a relaxing evening meal with a focus on local ingredients.
Located in Russell, a short walk from the harbor.
NZD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Return to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand

7:30AM

Travel back to Auckland

Catch a morning bus back to Auckland; relax and enjoy the scenery.
Depart from Paihia bus station.
NZD40, 3 hours

10:30AM

Brunch at Everybody’s

Indulge in a laid-back brunch atmosphere with fresh, seasonal dishes.
A short walk from the bus station.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit the Auckland Botanical Gardens

Explore beautiful flora and gardens; perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Take a bus from downtown to the gardens.
Free, 2.5 hours

3:00PM

Coffee at Allpress Espresso

Enjoy a rich coffee experience at this local favorite café.
Take a bus back toward the city center.
NZD10, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Newmarket Shopping District

Shop for local and international brands in this trendy area.
Short bus ride from Allpress.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Mezzaluna

Savor an Italian dining experience with fresh pasta dishes.
A 15-minute drive from Newmarket.
NZD60, 2 hours
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Day 12: Last Adventures

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tamsin's

Enjoy a cozy breakfast with a lovely café ambiance.
Located a short walk from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rangitoto Island

Take a ferry to the iconic volcanic island for a hike with stunning views.
Catch the ferry from Auckland; around a 25-minute ride.
NZD35, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Island Café

Refuel with a light lunch overlooking the stunning landscapes.
Located right on Rangitoto Island.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Auckland

Ferry back to the city after a day of exploring.
Catch the return ferry.
NZD35, 1 hour

4:30PM

Relax at the Viaduct Harbour

Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
A short taxi ride from the ferry terminal.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Sid at The French Café

Indulge in an exquisite fine dining experience to wrap up your amazing journey.
A taxi ride from Viaduct; booking recommended.
NZD120, 2 hours
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Day 13: Departure

Auckland, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Emporium

Enjoy your last breakfast in Auckland with great coffee and pastries.
Located just down the street from your hotel.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last Minute Shopping

Pick up some souvenirs at local shops in Queen Street.
A short walk from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-out and Departure

Prepare for your onward journey, reflecting on your wonderful time in Auckland.
Head to the airport via taxi or shuttle.
NZD50, 1 hour
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